Electrolytes assessed by point-of-care testing - Are the values comparable with results obtained from the central laboratory?
Author(s): Chacko B, Peter JV, Patole S, Fleming JJ, Selvakumar R
Publication: Indian J Crit Care Med, 2011, Vol. 15, Page 24-9
PubMed ID: 21633542 PubMed Review Paper? No
Purpose of Paper
Conclusion of Paper
Studies
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Study Purpose
The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of analyzing whole blood at the bedside rather than analyzing serum after sending whole blood through a PTS on sodium and potassium levels. Specimens for analysis at the bedside were collected into an ABG syringe coated with lithium heparin, while specimens for analysis in the central lab were collected in BD vacutainers for serum.
Summary of Findings:
After PTS transport, serum sodium levels, measured in the central lab using the AU2700, were an average of 4 mmol/L higher than whole blood levels measured using a GEM 3000 at the patient bedside (p<0.001). Generally, potassium levels in PTS transported serum and untransported whole blood showed good agreement (Lin concordance correlation, Pc0.96), but when potassium levels were below 3 mmol/L, the serum levels were, on average, 0.6 mmol/L higher in transported specimens, and the agreement between the two was low (Pc=0.53). The differences in levels of potassium (below 3 mmol/L only) or sodium between whole blood analyzed at the bedside and serum analyzed after PTS transport were clinically relevant.
Biospecimens
Preservative Types
- None (Fresh)
Diagnoses:
- Not specified
Platform:
Analyte Technology Platform Electrolyte/Metal Clinical chemistry/auto analyzer Pre-analytical Factors:
Classification Pre-analytical Factor Value(s) Clinical chemistry/auto analyzer Specific Technology platform GEM 3000 (direct ion selective electrode)
AU2700 (indirect ion selective electrode)
Biospecimen Aliquots and Components Blood and blood products Serum
Whole blood
Storage Within hospital transportation method Not transported
Pneumatic tube system